# Oregon Senators Seek Rural Funding Extension

On October 1, 2026, Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley introduced legislation with Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch to extend Secure Rural Schools (SRS) funding for three years and clarify how funds are distributed to Oregon counties with Bureau of Land Management lands. The program expired on September 30, 2026, and the bill has not yet restored funding. If enacted, continued county resources could support schools, roads, watershed restoration, law enforcement, and fire services; the announcement identifies no solicitation, contract award, or direct procurement opportunity.

- County procurement professionals and suppliers serving rural communities can account for potential funding continuity in planning, but should not treat the proposed extension as available funding before passage.
- If enacted, the distribution clarification could affect funding allocations to Oregon counties with BLM lands and their capacity to support the listed local services.
- The bill covers a three-year extension; the signal provides no contract values, application process, or procurement deadlines.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Education
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Policy
**Published:** October 02, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Congress
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

### Key Quotes
> A three-year extension of the program and these common-sense updates are critical to ensuring the federal government upholds its promise to our communities and that local governments can reliably access these important resources.
> — Jeff Merkley, U.S. Senator

> It’s past time to get rural communities off the financial rollercoaster and deliver a permanent funding solution.
> — Ron Wyden, U.S. Senator

### Sources
- [Wyden, Merkley Introduce Bill to Extend Secure Rural Schools Funding | U.S. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon](https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-introduce-bill-to-extend-secure-rural-schools-funding) - Wyden Senate